Question 1

What is Adrenal Hyperplasia?

Accepted Answer

Adrenal hyperplasia is a condition where the adrenal glands become enlarged and produce excessive amounts of hormones. It is caused by abnormal growth of adrenal tissue leading to overproduction of cortisol, DHEA, and other corticosteroids. The Cortisol, AM test is the most important test for diagnosis because it measures morning cortisol levels when they are naturally highest.

Question 2

What causes adrenal hyperplasia?

Accepted Answer

Adrenal hyperplasia is caused by genetic mutations that affect enzymes needed to produce cortisol, specifically 21-hydroxylase deficiency in over 90% of cases. When these enzymes are deficient, the adrenal glands enlarge and overproduce other hormones like androgens while struggling to make enough cortisol. This triggers the pituitary gland to release more ACTH hormone, which further stimulates adrenal growth and creates a cycle of hormone imbalance that can affect metabolism, blood pressure, and sexual development.

Question 3

What is the best test for adrenal hyperplasia?

Accepted Answer

The Cortisol, AM test is the most important test for adrenal hyperplasia because it measures morning cortisol levels when they should naturally be at their peak, revealing abnormal production patterns. In adrenal hyperplasia, you will typically see elevated or inappropriately low cortisol levels depending on the type of enzyme deficiency. The DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) test is also essential because adrenal hyperplasia causes overproduction of DHEA and other androgens, and elevated DHEA levels help confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of adrenal dysfunction. Together, these hormone tests provide a comprehensive picture of how your adrenal glands are functioning.

Question 4

When should I get tested for adrenal hyperplasia?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience unexplained weight gain or loss, persistent fatigue despite adequate rest, irregular menstrual periods or fertility problems, excessive body or facial hair growth in women, early puberty in children, or difficulty managing blood pressure. Testing is especially important if you have a family history of adrenal disorders or if you notice darkening of skin creases, salt cravings, or symptoms of hormone imbalance. Early detection through blood testing can prevent serious complications and help you start appropriate hormone replacement therapy if needed.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of adrenal hyperplasia?

Accepted Answer

Symptoms of adrenal hyperplasia vary depending on which hormones are affected and whether the condition is present from birth or develops later. Common symptoms include excessive facial or body hair growth (hirsutism), irregular or absent menstrual periods, acne and oily skin, early puberty in children, short stature despite early growth spurts, salt cravings and dehydration, fatigue and muscle weakness, low blood pressure or difficulty regulating blood pressure, and infertility or difficulty conceiving. In severe cases, you might experience vomiting, diarrhea, and life-threatening electrolyte imbalances during adrenal crisis.

Question 6

Who is at risk for adrenal hyperplasia?

Accepted Answer

People with a family history of congenital adrenal hyperplasia are at highest risk since this condition is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning both parents must carry the gene mutation. Certain ethnic groups have higher carrier rates, including people of Ashkenazi Jewish, Hispanic, Italian, and Slavic descent. Newborns are routinely screened in most states because early detection prevents life-threatening complications. Adults can develop a milder form called non-classic adrenal hyperplasia that may not appear until adolescence or adulthood, particularly in women with unexplained fertility problems or irregular periods.

Question 7

What happens if adrenal hyperplasia is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated adrenal hyperplasia can lead to serious complications including adrenal crisis, a life-threatening emergency with severe vomiting, dehydration, low blood pressure, and shock that requires immediate medical attention. Long-term complications include stunted growth and short adult height in children, severe acne and permanent facial hair growth in women, infertility and irregular menstrual cycles, osteoporosis from prolonged hormone imbalances, increased risk of testicular tumors in men, and psychological effects from physical changes. The excess androgens can cause ambiguous genitalia in newborn girls, which may require surgical correction. Getting tested and starting treatment early prevents most of these complications.

Question 8

Can adrenal hyperplasia be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, adrenal hyperplasia is primarily diagnosed through blood tests that measure specific hormone levels produced by the adrenal glands. The Cortisol, AM test checks morning cortisol levels to see if your adrenal glands are producing appropriate amounts at the right time of day. The DHEA test measures this androgen hormone that becomes elevated in adrenal hyperplasia. Your doctor may also order tests for 17-hydroxyprogesterone, testosterone, androstenedione, and ACTH to get a complete picture of your adrenal function. In some cases, genetic testing can identify the specific enzyme mutations causing the condition, and ACTH stimulation tests can assess how your adrenal glands respond to hormonal signals.

Question 9

How is adrenal hyperplasia treated?

Accepted Answer

Adrenal hyperplasia is treated with hormone replacement therapy to replace deficient cortisol and, if needed, aldosterone to maintain proper salt and water balance. Most people take hydrocortisone or prednisone daily to suppress excess ACTH production and reduce androgen overproduction. The dosage must be carefully adjusted based on regular blood tests to avoid under-treatment or over-treatment. During times of stress, illness, or surgery, you will need higher doses to prevent adrenal crisis. Women with excess androgen symptoms may also take medications to block androgen effects or birth control pills to regulate menstrual cycles. Treatment is usually lifelong, and you should wear a medical alert bracelet indicating your condition.

Question 10

How can I prevent adrenal hyperplasia?

Accepted Answer

Since congenital adrenal hyperplasia is an inherited genetic condition, it cannot be prevented, but genetic counseling can help families understand their risk of passing the condition to children. If both parents are known carriers, prenatal testing through amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling can detect the condition before birth. Newborn screening programs catch most cases early, preventing life-threatening complications through prompt treatment. For adults with non-classic adrenal hyperplasia, early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications like infertility and severe symptoms. If you have a family history of the condition, consider genetic testing before having children to understand your carrier status and reproductive options.

Question 11

What can I do at home for adrenal hyperplasia?

Accepted Answer

While medication is essential, you can support your treatment by taking your prescribed hormones at the same times each day and never skipping doses. Keep extra medication on hand for emergencies and increase your dose during illness, injury, or extreme stress as directed by your doctor. Increase your salt intake during hot weather or exercise to prevent dehydration, and wear a medical alert bracelet at all times. Manage stress through regular sleep schedules, moderate exercise, and relaxation techniques since stress affects hormone levels. Monitor your symptoms and blood pressure regularly, and keep all scheduled appointments for blood tests to ensure your hormone levels remain balanced. Educate family members about recognizing signs of adrenal crisis so they can get you emergency help if needed.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Adrenal Hyperplasia Blood Test

What is Adrenal Hyperplasia?

What causes adrenal hyperplasia?

What is the best test for adrenal hyperplasia?

When should I get tested for adrenal hyperplasia?

References

Here’s why 1,000,000+ customers chose us for affordable hassle-free private blood testing.

Us vs. Them

1,000,000+ blood tests later, here's what our customers say

Ask Me Anything